Toilets in Egypt
Although you will find both ‘squat’ and ‘sit down’ toilets in operation in Egypt, it is the western style ‘sit down’ toilet that is prevalent.
However, in most cases toilets in Egypt have been adapted and installed with one of the following:
• A metal tube in the bowel which takes aim at the user’s rectum. A tap to the side of the seat releases a stream of water of varying ferocity from the tube.
• A small showerhead on a rope hanging to one side of the loo (As shown in the image). The user can take this to aim at the desired area and compress a trigger to release a jet stream of water
Both of these modifications are intended to be used in conjunction with the left hand (hence Egyptians always eat and shake with the right) for the purpose of cleaning oneself after a visit. As such they are not built to take paper, which will cause immediate blocking. All paper is to be placed into the bins provided.
Public toilets in Egypt will usually be managed by an attendant who should keep them clean (…ahem) and hand you paper when you enter. A small 'backsheesh' is required for these services.
Essential items to bring with you for each toilet visit include the following:
Paper – Attendants (if there is one) will usually hand you just two or three squares of paper Hand sanitizer Small change for tipping the attendant 0.5 – 1 LE A strong stomach
